Our Board

Regina Bennett - Chairperson

I am the Coordinator at the Darwin Aboriginal & Islander Women’s Shelter Inc and have been employed with DAIWS for 9 years. Previously, I was a volunteer Management Committee member for approximately 14 years in different roles.

Before commencing full time employment with DAIWS, I worked with the NT and Commonwealth Government for 23 years.

DAIWS endorsed my attendance at the National Indigenous Leadership program in 2004, which was the very first one which was held in Adelaide. I believe the Leadership program is on-going and one of the most successful programs run through Fahcsia for Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people. I have also completed the Certifiicate IV in Indigenous Leadership which was run through the Indigenous Leadership Centre in Canberra.
I was also on the council of ATSIC for 5 years, before it was closed down.

I am currently a council member on the NT Families and Children Advisory Council (NTFCAC). I am also the Chairperson on the Darwin Regional Indigenous Advancement CDEP Corp.

The transition from full time employment with Government, then commencing full time work with the Community Sector was very challenging, however, the skills and knowledge I gained from working with Government, my role on the ATSIC Council and graduating from the National Indigenous Leadership program assisted me in being able to manage the Service with confidence.

In 2006, I became a board member on YRHAC, and more recently as the Chairperson. Over the years it has been challenging and rewarding. It gives me satisfaction to be able to assist people in improving their lives by providing accommodation and support systems around them. It is also satisfying to see the dedication and drive within the YRHAC board and workers past and present who are passionate in regards to making a difference for Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people living in the Darwin region.

Jon Harris - Vice Chairperson

I am a local Indigenous man and have been involved for many years in the area of Indigenous Training, Mentoring and Indigenous Community Liaison.

My years involved in training and mentoring has allowed me to assist other Indigenous people to achieve sustainable employment and confidence and be able to look after and provide for their families and extended families.

Each of the people I meet, mentor and help to gain qualifications provides a solid basis for showing others, what can be gained by taking part in opportunities of personal growth and empowerment.

My duties in Community Liaison have been varied and my family background assists me to understand the needs of the Community and the great need of consultation and information sharing.

Lorraine Beetson - Treasurer

I come from a rural indigenous background our family still has interest in the cattle industry. My first position in the N.T was at Adelaide River as a teacher, 90% of the students were indigenous. I have experience in the hospital industry, managing hotels throughout the N.T.

I am at the moment working at DAIWS I have been on the board at Yilli housing since 2005-2006 and have seen many changes and growth in that time. Our housing has improved and we have moved forward with staffing programs which includes our maintenance teams.

Secretary - Tania McLeod

Over the past ten years I have worked for my community both in Darwin and Jawoyn regions, in the areas of substance misuse, housing, health, law and order and human rights awareness. I am currently working for The Fred Hollows Foundations Australia Indigenous Program. I am the Governance Coordinator; my current duty is to support greater self determination and control in our partner remote Indigenous communities this is achieved through increased empowerment, control and capacity of local managed groups, committees and organisations.

I am also a board member of the regional Indigenous housing service and have been for a number of years. In the past I have advocated for homeless (Long grass) people on many issues connected with the access to health and housing services harm minimization and child protection. I have also worked with the Aboriginal Traditional Landowners of Darwin the Larrakia Nation coordinating community service programs. I am a member of the Diplomacy Training Program Alumni and promote awareness on the rights of Indigenous peoples whenever I can. I am also a member of the Indigenous Human Rights Network Australia (IHRNA) interim Steering Committee.

Members

• Kelvin Costello
• Yvette Carolin
• Tracy Peris
• Jacki Ahkit
• Nerrale Arnold